Trongsa Dzong, Buddhist fortress on mountain slope in Trongsa, Bhutan.
Trongsa Dzong is an enormous stone fortress that spans multiple levels along a steep hillside, overlooking the deep valley of the Mangde River in central Bhutan. The complex follows the natural slope of the mountain and connects different structures through narrow passages and stone staircases.
The fortress was founded in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and served as the power base for the first two kings who ruled Bhutan from this location. Its construction marked a turning point in centralizing political control across the kingdom.
The complex houses 25 temples devoted to Tantric deities, where around 200 monks reside during winter months and take part in religious ceremonies and daily rituals.
Visitors can walk up narrow stone staircases connecting different sections of the fortress, including the Ta Dzong watchtower that now functions as a museum. Sturdy walking shoes are important since the paths are steep and uneven with many steps to climb.
The fortress contains a traditional printing house that continues to produce religious texts using methods passed down through generations without significant change. This craft remains visible in the daily life of the place and connects the past with the present.
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